Membrane Assembly RFID Antenna Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In complex information processing devices, such as printers and copiers, there is a need for a system to wirelessly provide RFID data to authorize, customize, or affect device performance without the drawbacks of redesigning the device, particularly in environments where user authentication and secure media output are critical, and existing solutions like header sheets are inefficient and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a membrane assembly with an antenna configured to communicate with an RFID device, allowing for wireless communication to receive and write RFID data, which is modular, cost-effective, and can be easily integrated into existing devices, providing improved read/write capabilities and secure access control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID technology is integrated into information processing devices for wireless communication and authentication, then user authentication and secure media output are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the RFID system into separate functional modules: an RFID transponder (separate device) and an RFID reader integrated into the information processing device. This segmentation allows the information processing device to gain authentication capabilities without incorporating complex RFID hardware internally, thus improving reliability while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a membrane assembly as an intermediary component that houses the RFID reader and antenna. This membrane assembly acts as a mediator between the user interface and the main device architecture, enabling wireless RFID communication without directly complicating the core information processing device structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If membrane assembly is used to integrate multiple user interface components, then manufacturing cost and assembly complexity are reduced, but ease of operation may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that integrates buttons, displays, and the RFID reader interface into a single universal structure. This allows the same membrane assembly to serve multiple functions (user input, information display, and authentication initiation), simplifying manufacturing while maintaining ease of operation through a unified interface design.
3Loss of information
If header sheets are used for media output identification, then user identification is improved, but productivity and resource efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical header sheet system with a wireless RFID communication system. Instead of physically inserting header sheets to identify users, the system uses electromagnetic fields for contactless authentication and identification. This substitution eliminates the time and resources required for manual header sheet handling while maintaining accurate user identification and media output assignment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables secure, on-demand media output and efficient user authentication, reducing the need for redesigning devices and minimizing costs, while ensuring reliable and secure operation by integrating RFID capabilities into existing information processing devices through modular membrane assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
RFID technology involves the transmission of information through electromagnetic waves. A typical RFID system includes an RFID transponder and an RFID reader.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a membrane assembly that integrates an antenna configured to communicate with an RFID device to receive and/or write RFID data to and/or from the RFID device. In various embodiments, the membrane assembly may be incorporated into an information processing device, and the information processing device may be included in an information system. The membrane assembly includes at least a first antenna adapted to wirelessly communicate with an RFID device that may be associated with (i.e. worn, held, attached to, or otherwise related to) a user. The wireless communication between the membrane assembly and the RFID device provides the basis for controlling the information processing device. In various embodiments, the RFID data may be used to authorize, customize, and/or otherwise affect the performance of the information processing device.